New and Alternative Treatments for Autism

Chelation therapy involves chemical removal of metals from the body. Some people claim that it can treat and even cure autism.

The Autism Research Institute (ARI) was created by Dr. Bernard Rimland, one of the pioneers in autism treatment. Dr. Rimland was also one of the creators of the DAN (Defeat Autism Now) protocol. In this Q&A, ARI staff respond to questions about their controversial biomedical treatment approach for autism spectrum disorders.

Therapeutic riding and hippotherapy are popular treatments for children with autism. Has your child tried therapeutic riding? Do you recommend it?

Therapeutic riding is a well-established technique for helping individuals with a variety of muscular and developmental issues. Now, it's becoming increasingly popular for treating autism.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment (HBOT) has long been considered a questionable treatment for autism. Now, one controlled study suggests it may be effective. Learn about the ups and downs of the study and the treatment.

Facilitated communication (FC) is a highly controversial technique for helping non-verbal individuals with autism and similar disabilities to "talk." Does FC really work?

DAN doctors offer biomedical treatments, such as special diets, supplements, and chelation, for children with autism. Because their training is sketchy, it's important to choose your DAN doctor wisely.

The Rapid Prompting Method, developed by Soma Mukhopadhyay, is a tool for reaching, teaching and communicating with non-verbal people on the autism spectrum. There is no research to support or refute its usefulness -- and some claim that it's nothing short of miraculous.

Auditory integration training (AIT) is a therapy intended to improve the symptoms of autism. Some practitioners have even claimed to cure autism using AIT. What is AIT for autism? Does it really work?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a new treatment for autism which is in the very earliest stages of research. What is HBOT for autism? How effective is HBOT in treating autism?

Defeat Autism Now (DAN!) Doctors are trained in a biomedical approach to autism treatment. Learn more about the "DAN! protocol," training, and techniques.

These simple tips will help minimize the risks and maximize the effectiveness of new and alternative treatments for autism.

Dr. Manuel Casanova of the University of Kentucky has conducted research on the autistic brain which may lead to a new treatment, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). This technique, used to treat mental illness, could alleviate hypersensitivities with few side effects.